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NOT FAR AWAY FROM THE LAKE DISTRICT LIES A LESS CELEBRATED TREASURE THAT RIVALS THESE LANDSCAPES IN GRANDEUR JON MACPHERSON Chief Reporter, JENNA CAMPBELL What's On Editor and EMILIA

BONA Content Editor 10:32, 03 Jun 2025 If you find yourself driving north on the M6 on a Friday evening, it's likely you're en route to the stunning Lake District National Park.

With its towering mountains, tranquil lakes, idyllic valleys, and striking coastlines, it is a favourite weekend retreat for those in search of pristine natural beauty. But not far away lies

a less celebrated treasure that rivals these landscapes in grandeur. Covering more than 300 square miles, the Forest of Bowland is distinguished by its undulating hills, harsh moorlands,

and timeless woodlands, securing its place on outdoor retailer Millets' list of England's top hidden gems. While it may not be at the very top of the list – that honour goes to

Embleton Bay – it features among a handpicked collection of lesser-known scenic spots ripe for exploration. Discussing the newly released list, Sam Chadwick, blog writer and outdoor

aficionado at Millets, remarked: "In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors, with hotspots like Mam Tor and Scafell Pike growing in popularity.

We have compiled a list of England's best hidden gems for those who want to avoid the crowds while enjoying the outdoors." The Forest of Bowland has received an extraordinary

4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, marking it as a top destination for those in search of peace and the appeal of nature, with visitors extolling its teeming wildlife and "beautiful natural

vistas", reports Lancs Live. Article continues below Reviewers have singled out the area as ideal for walkers, amazed by its "staggering" expanse of woodland. Nestling on the

borders of Lancashire and Yorkshire, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) extends from Hurst Green right up to Wennington in the north, offering some of North England's most

pristine settings for leisurely walks, equestrian activities, and cycling. This AONB includes the separate Forest of Pendle, separated from the larger area by the Ribble Valley. In

particular, Pendle Hill within the Forest of Pendle stands out as one of the area's most iconic features. Starting at Barley—or Barleegh in olden times—a village dating back 3000 years,

tourists can begin their climb up Pendle Hill. As they reach the apex, they are greeted with sweeping views of both the Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland. Barley is primed for visitors,

with ample car parking availability, designated picnic areas, an information centre, and local amenities such as a pub, cafe, and the lively village hall. Additionally, tucked away at the

base of Pendle Hill is Downham, a tranquil and unspoiled hamlet where a stream gently flows past the village green and charming stone cottages. Despite its rich history - its church tower is

a prime example of 15th-century architecture - the village may be familiar to those who've seen 'Whistle Down the Wind', as it was used as a filming location. More recently,

the BBC drama Born and Bred was also shot here. Another must-see in the area is the delightful village of Slaidburn, nestled on the banks of the Hodder in the moorland region of the Forest

of Bowland. Meanwhile, Chipping, situated on the slopes above River Loud, is a conservation area featuring stone-built cottages, a 13th-century church, and the Chipping Craft Centre, reputed

to be the longest continuously running shop in the UK. Elsewhere, the hills on the western side of the Forest of Bowland attract walkers from Lancaster and surrounding areas, including

Clougha Pike, the westernmost hill. To fully appreciate the local flora and fauna, visitors often visit the Trough of Bowland, a scenic pass with breathtaking views; Beacon Fell Country

Park, known for its walking trails; and Bowland Wild Boar Park, a wonderful place to enjoy the countryside and local wildlife. Millets has unveiled a list of 'hidden gems' for

those looking to explore the UK this summer, including Porth Joke in Cornwall, the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, Warburg Nature Reserve in Oxfordshire, and Runswick Bay in Yorkshire. As

more people are expected to seek out outdoor adventures, Millets' specialists have shared some essential advice for visitors to these scenic spots. Sam from Millets said: "If you

are visiting any area of the UK this summer, it is important to be prepared. Ensuring that you pack a backpack or rucksack with enough food and water as well as a change of clothes is vital.

"It is also a good idea to pack waterproof clothing, as the UK's weather can be unpredictable. Walkers should also wear supportive footwear when visiting sites with uneven and

muddy terrain." He added: "This helps to reduce the risk of injury or of tripping over uneven footpaths. You must also leave any place you visit exactly as you found it. Article

continues below "Take any rubbish and equipment, such as camping chairs or wind breaks, home with you and be respectful of any wildlife and other people around you."